Recent editions of the ARRL Antenna Book have a much more "considered" assessment of the Loop Skywire's capabilities, including the observation that the low SWR observed by "early proponents" indicated that "cable losses were part and parcel of performance".

The ARRL Antenna Book plots show the Skywire at 40ft on its fundamental frequency is inferior to a half-wave dipole 10ft lower, for a take-off angle of 10 degrees at all azimuth angles. The loop does better on higher frequencies.

I've used horizontal loops a lot over the years. In my experience, maximum radiationis straight up (on the fundamental. depending on height above ground), in accordance with models, but there is also some low angle radiation that allows for DX contacts.

Copyright 2000-2017 eHam.net, LLC
eHam.net is a community web site for amateur (ham) radio operators around the world.
Contact the site with comments or questions.
WEBMASTER@EHAM.NETSite Privacy Statement